Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

If you’re dreaming of a treat that captures the very essence of autumn, look no further than Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar. These delightfully fluffy donuts are perfectly spiced with a warm blend of traditional fall flavors, then coated generously in a sweet cinnamony sugar that makes each bite irresistibly cozy. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, craving a snack, or looking to bring a little festive cheer into your kitchen, these donuts deliver everything you want with minimal fuss and maximum comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly balanced flavors: The mix of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates that signature autumnal warmth that everyone loves.
• Light and fluffy texture: Unlike dense pumpkin desserts, these donuts stay airy and moist with just the right crumb.
• Simple and speedy prep: With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy these donuts fresh in under an hour.
• Customizable coating: The cinnamon sugar topping adds just enough sweetness and texture, but you can tweak it to suit your taste.
• Great for sharing: These donuts are crowd-pleasers at gatherings, making your autumn parties unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple pantry staples and a few seasonal hits to create Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar that are bursting with flavor and fluffy texture. Each ingredient plays a key role in delivering the moist crumb, spice aroma, and luscious coating that makes these donuts unforgettable.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for a soft, tender donut base.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to give the donuts their perfect rise and lightness.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: The essential pumpkin spice blend that fills every bite with warmth.
• Pure pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, vibrant color, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
• Sugar: Balances the spices and sweetness in the batter, and also in the cinnamon sugar coating.
• Buttermilk or milk with vinegar: Keeps the donuts tender and adds a subtle tang.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and help with the light texture.
• Butter or oil: Adds richness and keeps the donuts moist.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the natural flavors and sweetness of the batter.
• Cinnamon sugar mix: A simple blend of sugar and cinnamon to roll the warm donuts in right after baking or frying.

Variations for Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

One of the joys of this recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. You can customize Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar in plenty of ways to match your ingredients, dietary needs, or flavor preferences without losing that classic fall vibe.

• Gluten-free twist: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to keep these donuts safe and delicious for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Vegan version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil or vegan butter for an egg-free and dairy-free alternative.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the batter for an extra burst of warm spice.
• Frosted option: Instead of cinnamon sugar coating, drizzle with a maple glaze or cream cheese icing to switch up the finish.
• Mini donuts: Use a mini donut pan for bite-sized treats perfect for parties or kid-friendly snacks.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a donut pan, grease it lightly to ensure easy removal later. Mix the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices—in one bowl for even distribution.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. This creates a creamy base packed with autumn flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender and light.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan

Use a spoon or piping bag to evenly distribute the batter into the donut pan cavities, filling them about 3/4 full. This ensures the donuts will puff up without spilling over.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake the donuts for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While the donuts are still warm, gently roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture for a crunchy, sweet coating that melts into the soft donut surface.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

• Room temperature ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and dairy for better batter consistency and fluffiness.
• Don’t overmix batter: Stir just until ingredients combine to avoid dense, tough donuts.
• Donut pan greasing: Lightly grease the pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and help the donuts retain their shape.
• Coat while warm: Roll donuts in cinnamon sugar immediately after baking to ensure the coating adheres nicely.
• Storage method: Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to 2 days.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce complements the cinnamon sugar coating beautifully. For extra flair, sprinkle some chopped pecans or toasted pumpkin seeds on top.

Side Dishes

Pair these donuts with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or spiced apple cider for the ultimate seasonal snack. Fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream also make delightful accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the donuts on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves and small pumpkins for a festive centerpiece. You can stack mini donuts on a skewer for fun handheld treats or serve them in colorful cupcake liners for individual portions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their softness while preserving the cinnamon sugar coating’s crunch.

Freezing

Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently before serving.

Reheating

Warm the donuts in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This refreshes their softness and revives the cinnamon sugar coating’s texture.

FAQs

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

Absolutely! This recipe is designed for baking to keep the donuts light and less oily while still giving you that fluffy texture and wonderful flavor profile.

What type of pumpkin puree is best to use?

Use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid added sugars and spices that can alter the recipe’s balance.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, you can enjoy these donuts without gluten, though texture may vary slightly.

How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?

Be sure to generously grease your donut pan or use non-stick spray, and allow the donuts to cool slightly in the pan before attempting removal.

Can I use alternative sweeteners?

Yes, natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or maple syrup can be used, but adjustments in liquid quantities might be necessary to maintain the right consistency.

Final Thoughts

Making Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar is like crafting a warm hug in pastry form that captures all the cozy feels of autumn. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is approachable, flexible, and guaranteed to bring smiles to anyone lucky enough to take a bite. Go ahead, treat yourself—and maybe a few friends—to a batch of these seasonal wonders today!

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